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Dear Bishop:
I call your attention to policy changes regarding marriage
between persons of the same gender.[1]
I have many thoughts, but for purposes of this letter just two things.
With regard to apostasy:
I am
married and celebrate my wife, three children, and four grandchildren. If I
were gay (by whatever combination of nature and nurture), subject only to
finding a loving and companionate partner I firmly believe that I would also be married. I would choose to be
married. I believe marriage is a moral and righteous choice, that it is good
for me, for my children, and for society.
Perhaps
this makes me apostate in my heart? So be it.
With
regard to children:
I
believe this policy is wrong, that it is contrary to scripture and gospel
teachings. Jesus said, “Suffer
little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom
of heaven.”
(Matthew 19:14) See [http://bycommonconsent.com/2015/11/05/60188/] for further explication. If I were
(once again) a bishop, I would not, I could not in good conscience, implement
this policy. I urge you to consider your obligations to the children in the
same way.
Peace
be with you,
[1]
Many LDS sources, including the Handbook of Instructions, use the term
“same-gender marriage” or “same-sex marriage” or “gay marriage.” These are all
incorrect. In the legal systems I know about, including in the United States,
there is no separate category marriage for same-sex couples. In every case that
I know of, the correct term is simply “marriage.” This is worth calling out
because it is a distinction. or non-distinction. at the very heart of
litigation and legislation regarding marriage.
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